Ignoring harassment threatens workforce and patient safety

Toxic workplace behaviour isn't just a cultural issue, it’s a business risk. The British Medical Association warns that failing to confront sexual harassment among healthcare staff allows poor conduct to thrive, erodes trust, and ultimately undermines patient safety. With nearly 1 in 12 NHS workers reporting unwanted sexual behaviour, the data speaks volumes.

Beyond reputational damage, the cost is retention. Harassment disproportionately affects women, and without safe, accountable reporting structures, like anonymous systems and trauma-informed investigations, organisations risk losing skilled professionals and compromising care quality. The call is clear: embed active bystander training, implement external investigations, and close the loopholes that let perpetrators slip through the cracks.

Read the full article to see what’s at stake and what leaders can do next.